Ordained male clergy; hierarchical structure; no formal priesthood per se
The True Jesus Church maintains a structured clergy with ordained offices including apostles, bishops, district elders, local elders, evangelists, and deacons. These officers are set apart through ordination and are understood to have received special calling and equipping by the Holy Spirit. While the church does not formally teach a sacerdotal priesthood in the Catholic sense (with special sacramental powers), the ordained ministry does function in a quasi-priestly capacity by administering baptism, foot washing, and the Lord's Supper.
Leadership is understood as male-only in the higher offices (apostles, bishops, elders), though women may serve in supportive roles such as evangelists or deacons, depending on local practice. This reflects both biblical interpretation (1 Timothy 2:12) and traditional practice. The ordination of male clergy is essential to the church's functioning, and great respect is accorded to properly ordained officers.
The clergy are expected to exemplify the faith and to lead the congregation in spiritual matters. They are accountable to higher ecclesiastical authority and can be removed or disciplined for doctrinal error or moral failure. Celibacy is not required, and most clergy are married.
Scripture References
Sources
- True Jesus Church order of ministry
- Teachings on ordained leadership